Apple is fending off a fresh barrage of criticism from Chinese environmental activists over alleged pollution by the manufacturers who make its iconic products.

In a report issued on Wednesday, a group of non-governmental organisations accused the company of violating its own corporate responsibility standards by using suppliers that allegedly violate the law and endanger public health by discharging heavy metals and other toxins.

Apple responded to the allegations by saying it took such concerns seriously but had found discrepancies in the report.